What We Stand For
January 24, 2025
California Equity Initiative Statement on the Federal Rollback of DEI
The California Equity Initiative strongly opposes the federal government’s decision to dismantle Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) programs—an attack on progress that threatens workforce diversity, economic mobility, and justice nationwide.
California must lead. Inclusion is not radical. Accountability is not preferential treatment.
As the federal government challenges the very principles of democracy, California is leading. DEIA programs were created to break systemic barriers, and their removal undermines opportunities for historically marginalized communities. We call on state leaders, businesses, and advocates to strengthen our commitment to equity and protect the policies that foster a just and inclusive society.
The California Equity Initiative remains steadfast in this fight. Now is the time for operational unity—to stand firm, mobilize, and push forward.
JUSTICE IN MOTION. EQUITY IN ACTION
January 13, 2025
Tragedy is a word that doesn’t encapsulate the depth and breadth of the loss suffered by those impacted by the Los Angeles fires. The California Equity Initiative expresses deep concern over the devastating impact of these fires, particularly in the Altadena community where inequities in emergency support threaten to exacerbate the wealth gap in Los Angeles. For African Americans in this region–a community where the Black homeownership rate stood at 81.5%--these losses represent not just homes but critical setbacks to personal equity and the generational wealth that strengthens communities over time.
In the face of adversity, we are reminded of the strength and resilience that unite our communities. The California Equity Initiative remains steadfast in its commitment to advocating for equitable recovery efforts. We pledge to support and collaborate with our elected officials to ensure every community has the resources it needs and to champion policies that empower all affected residents to rebuild stronger and more resilient futures.
JUSTICE IN MOTION. EQUITY IN ACTION
December 12, 2024
OPPOSITION TO THE DISMANTLE THE DEI ACT
The California Equity Initiative strongly opposes the Dismantle DEI Act, which threatens to eliminate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs within federal agencies. Such actions undermine California’s commitment to fostering inclusive environments and addressing systemic inequities.
We urge California’s leaders, organizations, and citizens to reject this harmful legislation and reaffirm their dedication to DEI principles, which have been essential in advancing equity and creating opportunities for all.
JUSTICE IN MOTION. EQUITY IN ACTION
November 26, 2024
CALIFORNIA EQUITY INITIATIVE CALLS FOR ACTION TO ADDRESS INCIDENT IN BEVERLY HILLS SCHOOLS, TIES TO REPARATIONS AND EQUITY
The California Equity Initiative (CEI) strongly condemns the recent reports of racist behavior and hateful incidents within Beverly Hills Unified School District (BHUSD) and calls for immediate, tangible action to protect students and uphold equity and inclusion. This behavior reflects broader systemic challenges that cannot be ignored and highlights the urgency of addressing racism in all its forms, starting within our educational systems.
As the birthplace of pivotal diversity and equity reforms, California has a responsibility to lead by example in safeguarding the social, emotional, and physical well-being of every student. According to findings from the California Reparations Task Force, education remains a cornerstone for achieving equity, yet systemic barriers persist for marginalized communities.
JUSTICE IN MOTION. EQUITY IN ACTION